| Spiritual Toolbox Tradition |
Tradition “is the handing down of information, beliefs and customs by word of mouth or by
example for one generation to another with or without written instruction.”
Miriam-Webster Dictionary
Several years ago I invited several twenty-something adults to experience one of my favorite
plays “Fiddler on the Roof.” Fiddler tells the story of a Hebrew village where “tradition” dictates
dress, food consumption, personal interaction, arrange marriages, and that only men dance at
weddings. The traditions in the story were both a blessing and barrier as changing times
caused the people of the village to scrutinize, evaluate, and question their beliefs. The song
“Tradition” gives a "because I said so” or “that’s the way we have always done it” type
explanation of the beliefs, values, and customs of village life and expectations. After the play
one of my young guest commented “if someone is always trying to tell you what to do or how to
live your life…”What is the point?
Life and the church must have a point or purpose to make sense. The “point” of church tradition
is to make faithful followers of Jesus Christ through customs that can be duplicated, understood,
and passed from generation to generation. The how, who, and where of disciple making may
change, the object, Jesus Christ, does not change. The church has centuries of writings and
customs that have been passed down from generation to generation. We also have the historic
church and the current church customs and practices that must be evaluated and honored.
The paradox is that there must be a careful balance of becoming the keepers of traditions and
creating new traditions that will offer opportunities in the current culture to make disciples with
integrity. Call, write or e-mail me with your questions, comments, or stories about past or
present church “TRADITION.”
Blessings and Peace,
Pastor Monica
example for one generation to another with or without written instruction.”
Miriam-Webster Dictionary
Several years ago I invited several twenty-something adults to experience one of my favorite
plays “Fiddler on the Roof.” Fiddler tells the story of a Hebrew village where “tradition” dictates
dress, food consumption, personal interaction, arrange marriages, and that only men dance at
weddings. The traditions in the story were both a blessing and barrier as changing times
caused the people of the village to scrutinize, evaluate, and question their beliefs. The song
“Tradition” gives a "because I said so” or “that’s the way we have always done it” type
explanation of the beliefs, values, and customs of village life and expectations. After the play
one of my young guest commented “if someone is always trying to tell you what to do or how to
live your life…”What is the point?
Life and the church must have a point or purpose to make sense. The “point” of church tradition
is to make faithful followers of Jesus Christ through customs that can be duplicated, understood,
and passed from generation to generation. The how, who, and where of disciple making may
change, the object, Jesus Christ, does not change. The church has centuries of writings and
customs that have been passed down from generation to generation. We also have the historic
church and the current church customs and practices that must be evaluated and honored.
The paradox is that there must be a careful balance of becoming the keepers of traditions and
creating new traditions that will offer opportunities in the current culture to make disciples with
integrity. Call, write or e-mail me with your questions, comments, or stories about past or
present church “TRADITION.”
Blessings and Peace,
Pastor Monica
B ld in Jesus Christ
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